Market Drayton split over plan for revamp of park

Councillor Steve Glover, Mayor of Market Drayton, is behind the proposals for Market Drayton Town Park. The project could create a venue for concerts as well as a 'trim trail' and exercise route with fitness equipment laid out.

Members of Market Drayton Town Council say money is set aside for the scheme but many residents feel the cash would be better spent on alternative ideas. More than 100 people have taken to the Drayton Crier Facebook page to express their views.

Mand Gregory suggested adding parking spaces for parents travelling to Market Drayton Infant School.

She said: "I'm not talking about using all of it, but even 20 spaces would make a massive difference to both parents doing school runs and local residents. It would also make the area safer for the children."

Amy Woollacott agreed. "We need more parking at the infant school, all you seem to get is abuse from residents when trying to park at 2.45pm," she said. "I understand it must be annoying but I do have to pick my children up."

Other residents suggested the park should be landscaped.

Jen Kynaston said: "It would be nice to see it like a park in bigger towns and cities, still open in part but with trees and landscaping and maybe even a duck pond."

Emily Farher added: "I'd like it to be like Telford Town Park but on a smaller scale."

Claire Champ said the park was fine how it is. "I love the park. Lots of families enjoy having picnics on there in the summer whilst the children either play or ride their bikes and scooters," she said.

But there was support for Councillor Glover's idea.

Musician Jody Jennings said: "A bandstand is a great idea as long as it's used and has bands playing on it so it's a monument and a focal point for people, as well a platform for artists."

Nikki Pascall added: "A trim trail would be good for bigger children as the park loses appeal for older ones."